From Victor Osula, Abuja
The family of late General Sani Abacha has blasted General Ibrahim Babangida, IBB, declaring that the former military president has distorted history over claims made in his new book, “A Journey in Service”.
IBB had in the 420-page memoir, stated that the June 12, 1993 election was “credible, free and fair” and was won by the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Moshood Abiola. He alleged that forces led by his Chief of Defence Staff, General Sani Abacha, annulled the election without his authority.
He said, “Yes, during the stalemate that followed the termination of the results announcement, the possibility of annulment that could lead to fresh elections was loosely broached in passing. But annulment was only a component of a series of other options. But to suddenly have an announcement made without my authority was, to put it mildly, alarming. I remember saying: ‘These nefarious ‘inside’ forces opposed to the elections have outflanked me!’ I would later find out that the ‘forces’ led by General Sani Abacha annulled the elections. There and then, I knew I was caught between ‘a devil and the deep blue sea’!! From then on, the June 12 elections took on a painful twist for which, as I will show later, I regrettably take responsibility”, Babangida claimed in the book.
Responding formally on Sunday, Mohammed Abacha accused Babangida of attempting to distort historical facts by shifting blame onto Abacha, who was a senior military officer at the time.
Noting that their father was neither the Head of State nor the Commander-in-Chief at the time the June 12 election was annulled, the Abacha family emphasised that the decision was made under Babangida’s administration, who held absolute executive powers and was solely responsible for his government’s actions.
They urged Nigerians to be cautious of revisionist narratives aimed at manipulating public perception for personal or political gain.
Despite Babangida’s claims, the Abacha family highlighted General Sani Abacha’s loyalty to his comrades, including Babangida, whom he rescued when his life was under threat.
They expressed gratitude to Nigerians who have defended Abacha’s legacy and commitment to truth and historical accuracy.
The Abacha family regretted that Babangida’s book failed to provide a truthful and objective account of past events, quoting a public commentator who noted that honesty, sincerity, and integrity are virtues not commonly associated with the author.
“For years, various actors have attempted to rewrite the history of that critical period in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. However, the facts remain unchanged. We urge Nigerians to be wary of revisionist narratives that seek to manipulate public perception for personal or political reasons. The memory of our late father and leader, General Sani Abacha, must not be tarnished by baseless accusations meant to absolve those who were truly responsible.
“Furthermore, we wish to emphasise that despite this unfortunate attempt to shift blame, General Sani Abacha remained a true and loyal friend to General Ibrahim Babangida up to the time of his death. He was a man of unwavering commitment to his comrades. We also find it necessary to state that at the time General Babangida’s life was under threat, it was General Abacha who came to his rescue, ensuring his safety.
“We take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to the many Nigerians who have risen in defence of General Sani Abacha in an effort to set the record straight. Your unwavering commitment to truth and historical accuracy is deeply appreciated, and we acknowledge the outpouring of support from those who refuse to allow history to be distorted.
“As we reflect on Nigeria’s history, we acknowledge General Sani Abacha’s time in leadership and the role he played in the nation’s development. His contributions, like those of past leaders, remain part of our country’s history. We believe that history is best judged with fairness and objectivity.
“We regret that “A Journey in Service” missed the opportunity and failed to make history as a truthful and objective account of past events. As one public commentator aptly put it, honesty, sincerity, and integrity are virtues not commonly associated with the author.”
